The Nigerian Army on Monday launched its 2026 Regimental Cadre (Militia) Convention in Kaduna, setting the tone for renewed emphasis on discipline, operational efficiency and professional excellence across its formations.
Declaring the convention open, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shu’aibu, stressed that Regimental Cadre personnel remain indispensable to both the operational and administrative effectiveness of the Army.
The COAS, who was represented at the event by the Commandant of the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre (MLAILPKC), Maj.-Gen. Dangana Allu, said the convention’s theme, “Empowering Regimental Cadre to Drive Combat Readiness and Professional Excellence,” highlights the urgent need to strengthen the capacity of personnel tasked with enforcing discipline and implementing command directives at the unit level.
He noted that Nigeria’s current security landscape demands a disciplined, motivated and mission-ready force, underscoring the central role of Regimental Cadre personnel in achieving that goal.
“As custodians of discipline and regimentation, you serve as the bridge between command directives and their execution. Your conduct must reflect professionalism, integrity and leadership worthy of emulation,” he said.
According to him, the convention is structured to equip participants with the leadership skills, knowledge and competencies required to effectively support commanders in improving operational performance.
In his remarks, the Chief of Army Administration, Maj.-Gen. Isa Abdullahi, described the gathering as a landmark initiative aimed at reinforcing the Army’s professional and administrative structures.
Abdullahi highlighted the strategic importance of Regimental Sergeant Majors, noting that as the most senior non-commissioned officers, they play a vital role in maintaining discipline, mentoring personnel and ensuring that policies are effectively implemented at the grassroots level.
He added that the programme aligns with the COAS’ command philosophy, which prioritises professionalism, discipline, capacity development and mission-oriented leadership.
“The effectiveness of any unit depends largely on the ability of Regimental Sergeant Majors to enforce standards, mentor troops and translate strategic directives into actionable outcomes,” he said.
He urged participants to take full advantage of the convention by engaging actively in discussions, sharing experiences and embracing continuous self-development.
Also speaking, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division, Maj.-Gen. Abubakar Wase, welcomed participants and described the convention as an important platform for leadership development and knowledge exchange.
Wase observed that the evolving security environment—marked by asymmetric threats and rapid technological changes—requires a combination of experience, innovation and strong leadership.
He assured participants of adequate logistical support, including accommodation, medical services and transportation, while also urging them to remain vigilant and security-conscious throughout the programme.
The convention features presentations from seasoned military officers and subject-matter experts, with sessions focusing on leadership, discipline, combat readiness, troop welfare and civil-military relations.
